Testimony at the Madlanga Commission has detailed explosive allegations. A protected witness, known as Witness C, spoke of widespread bribery. He claimed criminal kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala made payments to senior police in return for protection and influence.
The witness is a member of the Political Killings Task Team. He testified that Matlala gave millions to suspended deputy police commissioner Shadrack Sibiya. The payments included R2 million in cash for a property. Another R200,000 was allegedly left in a dustbin for Sibiya.
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Millions in kickbacks and unusual gifts
According to Witness C, the bribery extended beyond cash. Matlala allegedly gave Sibiya 20 impalas for his property. Matlala also allegedly contributed R300,000 towards Sibiya’s son’s wedding. These claims form part of a larger picture of alleged corruption within police leadership.
The commission heard that Sibiya and KZN Hawks head, Major-General Lesetja Senona, received kickbacks. These were from a R1.2 billion SAPS health services contract. Matlala allegedly kept a R360 million portion of this deal. This was after Sibiya and Senona helped him secure it.
The witness said Matlala expressed frustration that the protection he paid for was not delivered. Police investigations against him reportedly continued despite the payments.
Witness C also claimed Matlala funded sidelined Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. He allegedly paid R500,000 towards Mchunu’s ANC presidency campaign, although Matlala felt Mchunu did not honour his side of the deal.
The extensive network of alleged bribery also involved a Sergeant F. Nkosi who allegedly acted as a go-between for payments. Witness C has submitted WhatsApp messages as evidence to the commission. The inquiry continues.
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